Mr. Hay to Mr. Arriaga.
Washington, March 3, 1899.
Sir: Referring to my conversation with you in regard to the reported departure from New Orleans, for Puerto Barrios, Guatemala, of a filibustering expedition, I have the honor to inform you, that I at once communicated with the several Departments having direction in such matters. I am to-day in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of the Navy, stating that he has telegraphed the commanding officer of the U. S. S. Machias, now stationed at Puerto Cortez, acquainting him with the reported departure of the expedition and directing him to take such action as may necessary to prevent any violation of the neutrality laws of the United States. It is trusted that this prompt action on the part of the Secretary of the Navy will effectually check the execution of any hostile act which may have been meditated against a friendly government by the expedition in question.
Be pleased, etc.,